Planned Wairoa River cycle bridge generates international attention

A new $6.5 million cycle and walkway bridge across the Wairoa River - a key part of the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycle Trail project - is expected to become a tourist attraction contributing to the Bay of Plenty economy.

Designed by architect firm Warren and Mahoney for the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the design features a curved, single span bridge with no piles in the water and a “spectacular" arch about 40 metres high at mid-point.

The Council's Deputy Chief Executive and Infrastructure Manager Gary Allis said the idea for a bridge across the Wairoa River came in the initial development of the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycle Trail.

The project came to life when Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust came on board with a $1 million grant.

Allis said concepts from four companies were invited for the design competition and the winning design was chosen from a panel of judges made up of key project partners and tangata whenua.

Allis told local media “we knew an iconic structure would attract more than just cyclists - our vision is to have a bridge that becomes a tourist attraction, contributing to the region's amenities and economic development.

"We were looking for a unique creation, something that could be enjoyed by current and future generations. We're confident this bridge will do just that."

New Zealand Minister for Transport Simon Bridges believes that the bridge will have huge benefits for the region's tourism and for the health and lifestyle of residents.

He commented "It's going to be an a real drawcard in relation to overall an amazing cycle trail from Omokoroa to Tauranga for locals, commuters and tourists both throughout New Zealand and around the world.”

The bridge’s design has also been welcomed by businesses in the area, with Waimarino Adventure Park Director Blair Anderson adding “it is the best thing for this city and region. The design is amazing and I look forward to seeing its final construction."

He said it was important the structure fitted in with the natural environment commenting that the bridge would provide a fantastic view for people cycling between Tauranga and Omokoroa while presenting new tourism opportunities.

He went on to say “it's the perfect option to be able to mix things up. You could go for a half-day cycle and then a half-day kayak tour."

Accelerated by the New Zealand Government's Urban Cycleways Programme, the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycle Trail, once complete, will provide a link to between the growing township of Omokoroa and Tauranga City's existing urban cycleway network.

The bridge is also being featured as a headline project for the Australasian Small Bridges Conference 2017 being held on the Gold Coast on 27th and 28th November.

The two day conference program will focus on small to medium span bridges for road, rail and pedestrian/cyclist applications. Small and medium bridges are the most prevalent type of bridge.

Click here for more information on this conference.

Images: The design of a new $6.5 million cycle and walkway bridge across the Wairoa River. 

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